Calgary Flames Make Roster Move with Veteran Forward Justin Kirkland
The Calgary Flames have initiated a significant roster adjustment by placing veteran forward Justin Kirkland on waivers, creating immediate uncertainty about the player's immediate future in the National Hockey League. This strategic move opens up multiple possibilities for the 29-year-old depth forward as the league approaches the Olympic break roster freeze.
Potential Destinations for the Versatile Forward
Kirkland now faces two distinct paths forward in his professional hockey career. The Flames' decision could result in his reassignment to their American Hockey League affiliate, the Calgary Wranglers, where he would continue developing his game at the minor league level. Alternatively, another NHL organization might claim the experienced forward off waivers, providing him with a fresh opportunity at the highest level of professional hockey.
This marks the second time this season that Kirkland has been placed on waivers, having previously cleared without being claimed by another team. The outcome this time could differ significantly given his demonstrated value as a versatile depth player and effective penalty-killer.
Kirkland's Performance During the 2025-26 Campaign
Throughout the current NHL season, Kirkland has made twenty appearances for the Calgary Flames, contributing one goal and one assist while maintaining a plus-1 rating. His role has been particularly valuable on special teams, where he has worked regular shifts as part of the team's shorthanded unit.
The timing of this waiver placement comes immediately following Saturday's 3-2 victory over the San Jose Sharks, during which Kirkland was a healthy scratch from the lineup. His absence coincided with the return of Martin Pospisil from injury, who assumed the fourth-line center position that Kirkland had previously occupied.
Waiting Game Until Monday's Deadline
Kirkland participated in Sunday's optional practice at WinSport, demonstrating his continued commitment to maintaining game readiness despite the uncertainty surrounding his professional status. The forward must now wait until noon Mountain Time on Monday to learn his fate, as that marks the deadline for other NHL teams to submit waiver claims.
The outcome will determine whether Kirkland remains within the Flames organization at the AHL level or begins a new chapter with another NHL franchise. This decision comes at a critical juncture, just before the Olympic break roster freeze, adding strategic importance to the timing of the Flames' waiver placement.
As a versatile depth forward with penalty-killing expertise, Kirkland represents the type of player that contending teams often seek to bolster their roster depth. His experience and special teams capability could make him an attractive option for organizations looking to strengthen their defensive forward corps ahead of the stretch run toward the playoffs.
